Relocation advice/timeline

I am currently a BSN student and will graduate in Dec 2006. I currently live in New Mexico, but am planning on moving to Las Vegas, NV shortly after graduation. Could anyone give me advice regarding when i should start the application process and when I should take the NCLEX? I have a friend who currently lives there already, and we plan on moving into an apartment together, so I'm more concerned about the licensure process and looking for a job. I'm hoping to make this transition as smooth as possible, so any advice regarding this process, and any other matters that i might have overlooked would be greatly appreciated.